NEW PALTZ — A string of gasoline stations based in New Paltz has agreed to pay $50,000 in penalties for charging “unconscionably excessive prices” in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, according to the state attorney general’s office.

CDP Energy Corp., which operates five gas stations in the region, agreed to pay the fine after it was found the company charged as much as 70 cents more for a gallon of gas after the storm hit, compared to pre-storm prices.

“Today, we are continuing to send the message that ripping off the public during a time of crisis is against the law, and that those who engage in illegal price gouging will be held accountable,” Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said in a statement Wednesday.